Russian MFA proposes enhanced media cooperation among Caspian nations

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has proposed convening a meeting of the heads of diplomatic departments from the five Caspian littoral states — Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan — who are responsible for information policy and media relations.

According to Russian media, Zakharova made the proposal in a video address to participants of the Caspian Media Forum.

"I believe we could consider organising a meeting of the heads of foreign ministries responsible for information work in the Caspian format. I think many of our colleagues will support us, given the common tasks we face," she said.

Zakharova highlighted the untapped potential of media cooperation in the region, stating: "Within the framework of Caspian cooperation, the sphere of media interaction between the relevant organisations and government structures of the five countries has great potential that is far from being fully realised."

She further noted that Russia has already developed extensive bilateral ties with Caspian partners: "We have concluded many bilateral agreements, we hold consultations, and just recently, the ministry held such a meeting with our Iranian colleagues," she explained.

The spokesperson suggested that the proposed meeting could focus on "positive experiences of cooperation in the past as a basis for moving forward."

"I think no one will argue that the Caspian region has a truly great future," Zakharova concluded.

By Tamilla Hasanova